Poster: Connecting Cook County: Call to Action

Monday, May 8, 2017 | 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

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Connecting Cook County demonstrates how a Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) can set forth a vision that facilitates economic development, prioritizes alternative transportation modes and promotes equal access to opportunities. It further demonstrates how transportation is more than just mobility – it is a key component in supporting and maintaining healthy, sustainable communities. The presentation will discuss the importance of connecting transportation, land use, and economic development in developing sustainable communities. Key themes will address the following:

1) The purpose of transportation is to support the economy and create livable communities. Transportation is meant to get workers to work, shoppers to stores, students to school, and products to consumers. Good transportation systems help create stronger economies, reduce transportation costs, and create better, more livable communities.

2) Transportation systems are multi-purpose and multi-modal. Airports generate truck and auto traffic. Passenger rail services compete with freight transportation. Cars and trucks share the same highways. The various components have to be designed and managed as an integrated system, rather than as distinct silos.

3) The current transportation system involves hundreds of public agencies working with private sector institutions to provide transportation assets and services. Effective transportation planning and management requires intergovernmental cooperation and partnerships with the private sector.